UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer marks 100 days in office this weekend, already seeking to reboot his new Labour government after a stuttering return to power following 14 years in opposition.

Starmer's first weeks in office have been overshadowed by rows about gifts to ministers and a cut in welfare payments for millions of pensioners that have tanked his personal poll ratings.

He has also faced accusations of discouraging overseas investment by repeatedly blaming the former Conservative administration for bequeathing Labour a dire economic inheritance and warning that further pain lies ahead.

"It hasn't gone well," said Steven Fielding, a political scientist at the University of Nottingham and author of several books on the Labour Party.

"If this is a start of a march towards (Starmer's pledge of) national renewal, the first footsteps were very uncertain," he told AFP.

Observers note the early missteps were largely self-inflicted: failing to shut down the "freebies" row and misjudging anger over removing winter fuel payments for 10 million elderly people.

<h2>'Flat-footed'&nbsp;</h2>

While Starmer promised a "government of service", he was accused of hypocrisy for accepting thousands of pounds worth of clothes and tickets when he was asking Britons to make sacrifices.

Even though the donations were within parliament's rules, Starmer announced he would return around £6,000 ($7,840) worth -- but only after the scandal had been allowed to grow for several weeks.

"He's clearly a very good administrator," Fielding said of Starmer, a human rights lawyer and chief state prosecutor before entering politics.

"(But) there have always been questions about his political antennae." Labour, he said, had been "flat-footed" in taking control of the news agenda.

Observers say the decision to delay the budget until the party's fourth month in office left a vacuum that newspapers&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" />–&nbsp;particularly right-wing, Tory-supporting ones&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" />–&nbsp;were only too happy to fill with negative stories.

Scheduling the budget for October 30 meant the winter fuel cut gained more attention because it was announced in isolation, while government departments are in limbo about what they can announce, experts say.

<h2>Change at the top</h2>

Labour grandee Harriet Harman has said early "clunkiness" was to be expected since Labour had not been in government since Gordon Brown was prime minister in 2010.

Starmer, known to be ruthless when things are not going well, has already attempted a reset by parting company with his chief of staff, civil service veteran Sue Gray, who oversaw Labour's landslide vote triumph.

Her departure last weekend and the appointment of Labour insider Morgan McSweeney is expected to add a sharper political edge to government messaging.

"They do need to tell a more uplifting story about what they are doing," said Patrick Diamond, a Downing Street policy adviser when Labour was last in Number 10.

The government can point to several positive policy announcements in its first months, including on green energy, homebuilding and workers' rights, he pointed out.

Labour has launched a publicly owned clean energy company, lifted a de facto ban on new onshore wind farms and pledged to cut planning regulations to help build 1.5 million new homes.

On Thursday, it unveiled employment legislation that includes a ban on zero-hour contracts, improvements to sick and maternity pay, and measures aimed at making it harder for employers to sack staff.

Unions welcomed the bill, which comes after Labour ended drawn-out strikes in the public and private sectors.

<h2>European 'reset'</h2>

Starmer has also been busy attending international summits and travelling to European capitals seeking to repair relations with allies that were damaged by Brexit.&nbsp;

His official spokesman insisted this week that Starmer was focused on "delivering the change that he was elected to deliver" and it was "up to the public to determine what is success".

So far it appears unimpressed: a poll last month found that Starmer's popularity had slumped 45 points since the election, making him more unpopular than defeated Tory opponent Rishi Sunak.

Diamond notes that Labour's flagship policies are mid- and long-term projects. With the next election likely five years away, and a historically low number of Tory lawmakers, time is on Labour's side.

Finance Minister Rachel Reeves's budget is seen as crucial to Starmer achieving his mission of firing Britain's sluggish economy, and ultimately fulfilling his promise of "a decade of national renewal".

"It's completely retrievable as long as they learn the lessons," said Fielding.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer marks 100 days in office this weekend, already seeking to reboot his new Labour government after a stuttering return to power following 14 years in opposition.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer marks 100 days in office this weekend, already seeking to reboot his new Labour government after a stuttering return to power following 14 years in opposition. Starmer's first weeks in office have been overshadowed by rows about gifts to ministers and a cut in welfare payments for millions of pensioners that have tanked his personal poll ratings. He has also faced accusations of discouraging overseas investment by repeatedly blaming the former Conservative administration for bequeathing Labour a dire economic inheritance and warning that further pain lies ahead. "It hasn't gone well," said Steven Fielding, a political scientist at the University of Nottingham and author of several books on the Labour Party. "If this is a start of a march towards (Starmer's pledge of) national renewal, the first footsteps were very uncertain," he told AFP. Observers note the early missteps were largely self-inflicted: failing to shut down the "freebies" row and misjudging anger over removing winter fuel payments for 10 million elderly people. 'Flat-footed' While Starmer promised a "government of service", he was accused of hypocrisy for accepting thousands of pounds worth of clothes and tickets when he was asking Britons to make sacrifices. Even though the donations were within parliament's rules, Starmer announced he would return around £6,000 ($7,840) worth -- but only after the scandal had been allowed to grow for several weeks. "He's clearly a very good administrator," Fielding said of Starmer, a human rights lawyer and chief state prosecutor before entering politics. "(But) there have always been questions about his political antennae." Labour, he said, had been "flat-footed" in taking control of the news agenda. Observers say the decision to delay the budget until the party's fourth month in office left a vacuum that newspapers – particularly right-wing, Tory-supporting ones – were only too happy to fill with negative stories. Scheduling the budget for October 30 meant the winter fuel cut gained more attention because it was announced in isolation, while government departments are in limbo about what they can announce, experts say. Change at the top Labour grandee Harriet Harman has said early "clunkiness" was to be expected since Labour had not been in government since Gordon Brown was prime minister in 2010. Starmer, known to be ruthless when things are not going well, has already attempted a reset by parting company with his chief of staff, civil service veteran Sue Gray, who oversaw Labour's landslide vote triumph. Her departure last weekend and the appointment of Labour insider Morgan McSweeney is expected to add a sharper political edge to government messaging. "They do need to tell a more uplifting story about what they are doing," said Patrick Diamond, a Downing Street policy adviser when Labour was last in Number 10. The government can point to several positive policy announcements in its first months, including on green energy, homebuilding and workers' rights, he pointed out. Labour has launched a publicly owned clean energy company, lifted a de facto ban on new onshore wind farms and pledged to cut planning regulations to help build 1.5 million new homes. On Thursday, it unveiled employment legislation that includes a ban on zero-hour contracts, improvements to sick and maternity pay, and measures aimed at making it harder for employers to sack staff. Unions welcomed the bill, which comes after Labour ended drawn-out strikes in the public and private sectors. European 'reset' Starmer has also been busy attending international summits and travelling to European capitals seeking to repair relations with allies that were damaged by Brexit. His official spokesman insisted this week that Starmer was focused on "delivering the change that he was elected to deliver" and it was "up to the public to determine what is success". So far it appears unimpressed: a poll last month found that Starmer's popularity had slumped 45 points since the election, making him more unpopular than defeated Tory opponent Rishi Sunak. Diamond notes that Labour's flagship policies are mid- and long-term projects. With the next election likely five years away, and a historically low number of Tory lawmakers, time is on Labour's side. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves's budget is seen as crucial to Starmer achieving his mission of firing Britain's sluggish economy, and ultimately fulfilling his promise of "a decade of national renewal". "It's completely retrievable as long as they learn the lessons," said Fielding. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK PM Keir Starmer's poll ratings drop as Labour government set to mark 100 days in office

Round-up of top and latest news from the world of technology: - UK & UK launch joint effort to enhance online safety for Children - Germany closes Meta case after data measures agreed - Experts warns of rising behavioral issues in children due to screen time

UK & UK Launch Joint Effort To Enhance Online Safety For Children

Britain's economy bounced back in August, official data showed Friday, boosting the new Labour government ahead of its maiden budget later in October.

Gross domestic product grew 0.2 per cent in the reported month compared with July, when output stalled, the Office for National Statistics said in a statement.

The rise in economic growth was in line with analysts' expectations after GDP flatlined in June and July.

It also provides a timely boost to the new government, which has put growth expansion at the top of its priority list.

"It's welcome news that growth has returned to the economy," said Finance Minister Rachel Reeves, who will present the budget on October 30.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Labour party won power at the start of July, ending 14 years of Conservative rule.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/noel-tata-half-brother-of-late-ratan-tata-appointed-chairman-of-tata-trusts-report-766589">Noel Tata, half-brother of late Ratan Tata, appointed chairman of Tata Trusts</a>

ONS director of economic statistics Liz McKeown said that while all the main sectors of the economy grew in August, "the broader picture is one of slowing growth in recent months, compared to the first half of the year."

<h2>- 'Mild slowdown' -</h2>

Revised official growth data revealed last month that Britain's economy grew less than initially estimated in the second quarter.

Britain's economy had grown 0.7 per cent in the first quarter following a shallow and short-lived recession in the second half of last year.

The uptick in economic growth in August has lent some support to expectations that "a mild slowdown in GDP growth in the second half of this year is more likely than another recession," said Ashley Webb, UK economist at research group Capital Economics.&nbsp;

Recent data has also showed Britain's state debt rising to 100 per cent of annual GDP -- increasing the likelihood of biting tax rises in Labour's budget, according to analysts.

"The gloom surrounding the economy has been hard to shake", said Lindsay James, investment strategist at Quilter Investors.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-terror-attack-plot-afghan-suspect-nasir-ahmad-tawhedi-once-worked-with-cia-reports-766538">US election terror attack plot suspect Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi once worked for CIA</a>

"Much of this is due to Labour's rhetoric as they attribute difficult tax and spending decisions to their predecessors," she added.

Reeves has pledged to impose "iron discipline" over public finances to claw back what she says is a £22-billion ($29-billion) black hole inherited from the previous Conservative government.

Starmer has warned Britons that the budget announcement will be "painful", with tax rises and spending cuts expected.

The government has already faced criticism from all sides over scrapping a winter fuel-benefit scheme for 10 million pensioners.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Britain's economy bounced back in August, official data showed Friday, boosting the new Labour government ahead of its maiden budget later in October. Gross domestic product grew 0.

Britain's economy bounced back in August, official data showed Friday, boosting the new Labour government ahead of its maiden budget later in October. Gross domestic product grew 0.2 per cent in the reported month compared with July, when output stalled, the Office for National Statistics said in a statement. The rise in economic growth was in line with analysts' expectations after GDP flatlined in June and July. It also provides a timely boost to the new government, which has put growth expansion at the top of its priority list. "It's welcome news that growth has returned to the economy," said Finance Minister Rachel Reeves, who will present the budget on October 30. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Labour party won power at the start of July, ending 14 years of Conservative rule. Also Read | Noel Tata, half-brother of late Ratan Tata, appointed chairman of Tata Trusts ONS director of economic statistics Liz McKeown said that while all the main sectors of the economy grew in August, "the broader picture is one of slowing growth in recent months, compared to the first half of the year." - 'Mild slowdown' - Revised official growth data revealed last month that Britain's economy grew less than initially estimated in the second quarter. Britain's economy had grown 0.7 per cent in the first quarter following a shallow and short-lived recession in the second half of last year. The uptick in economic growth in August has lent some support to expectations that "a mild slowdown in GDP growth in the second half of this year is more likely than another recession," said Ashley Webb, UK economist at research group Capital Economics. Recent data has also showed Britain's state debt rising to 100 per cent of annual GDP -- increasing the likelihood of biting tax rises in Labour's budget, according to analysts. "The gloom surrounding the economy has been hard to shake", said Lindsay James, investment strategist at Quilter Investors. Also Read | US election terror attack plot suspect Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi once worked for CIA "Much of this is due to Labour's rhetoric as they attribute difficult tax and spending decisions to their predecessors," she added. Reeves has pledged to impose "iron discipline" over public finances to claw back what she says is a £22-billion ($29-billion) black hole inherited from the previous Conservative government. Starmer has warned Britons that the budget announcement will be "painful", with tax rises and spending cuts expected. The government has already faced criticism from all sides over scrapping a winter fuel-benefit scheme for 10 million pensioners. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK economy bounced back in August with a boost to new labour government

Indian industrialist Ratan Tata has died at the age of 86. The philanthropist is going to be accorded a state funeral.

Meanwhile, Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant in a speech to the nation's troops vowed that retaliation against Iran will be "lethal,&nbsp;precise and...surprising".

In the US, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has firmly denied another debate against Democrat Kamala Harris.

Click on the headlines for more

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:177,&quot;w&quot;:637,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2018}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ratan-tata-to-be-accorded-state-funeral-by-indias-maharashtra-day-of-mourning-declared-766147">Ratan Tata to be accorded state funeral by India's Maharashtra, day of mourning declared</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:209,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2050}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/10/459357-screenshot-2024-10-10-091056.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Indian tycoon and visionary industrialist Ratan Tata, who died late&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;(Oct 9), will be accorded a state funeral by the government of Maharashtra, a western Indian state. Calling Tata a "unique blend of morality and entrepreneurship", Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced&nbsp;a day of mourning in the state on Thursday (Oct 10) to pay tribute to the industrialist.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:664,&quot;w&quot;:745,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2505}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-defence-minister-vows-retaliatory-strike-against-iran-will-be-lethal-precise-and-surprising-watch-766151">Israeli defence minister vows retaliatory strike against Iran will be 'lethal, precise and surprising'. Watch!</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:696,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2537}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/10/459361-new-wion-2024-10-10t092403044.png?imwidth=400" />

Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant on Wednesday (Oct 9) warned that a retaliatory attack on Iran would be "lethal, precise and...surprising". During a speech to the country's troops, Galant vowed that Tehran would "pay a price".

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1116,&quot;w&quot;:670,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2957}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-milton-live-updates-12mn-left-without-power-record-rainfall-recorded-in-tampa-bay-766136">Hurricane Milton live updates: 1.5mn left without power, record rainfall recorded in Tampa Bay</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1148,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2989}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/10/459350-wion-web-team-bugs-and-banners-39.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 storm on Wednesday morning (Oct 9), after&nbsp;weakening from a Category 5 storm. It has since been downgraded to a Category 2.&nbsp;President Joe Biden has already warned it is expected to be one of the “most and worst destructive hurricanes to hit Florida in over a century”. The cyclone had maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (205 kph) as it made landfall at 8:30 p.m. near Siesta Key, the National Hurricane Center said. Milton is&nbsp;the fifth hurricane to strike the US this year. Poweroutage.us tracker reported that more than 1.5&nbsp;million customers were left without power, with Tampa and the surrounding areas being the worst affected.&nbsp;

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1637,&quot;w&quot;:678,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3478}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rules-out-another-parley-with-harris-says-nothing-to-debate-there-will-be-no-rematch-766128">Trump rules out another parley with Harris, says 'nothing to debate': 'There will be no rematch!'</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1669,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3510}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/10/459349-new-wion-2024-10-10t072602849.png?imwidth=400" />

Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 9) ruled out a second US presidential debate with political rival Kamala Harris. This comes just hours after Fox News offered to host a final debate before the November 5 election.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;BRICS Summit 2024: Newly Expanded BRICS Group Will Hold Its Two Day Summit In Kazan

<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:2122,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:353,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3963}" class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" bis_chainid="1" bis_depth="1" bis_id="fr_dyzcjiske25bo6b6mrg2dv" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:2122,&quot;w&quot;:560,&quot;h&quot;:350,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3963}" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2024-newly-expanded-brics-group-will-hold-its-two-day-summit-in-kazan-766156/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Indian industrialist Ratan Tata has died at the age of 86. The philanthropist is going to be accorded a state funeral. Meanwhile, Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant in a speech to the nation's troops vowed that retaliation against Iran will be "lethal, precise and.

Indian industrialist Ratan Tata has died at the age of 86. The philanthropist is going to be accorded a state funeral. Meanwhile, Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant in a speech to the nation's troops vowed that retaliation against Iran will be "lethal, precise and...surprising". In the US, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has firmly denied another debate against Democrat Kamala Harris. Click on the headlines for more Ratan Tata to be accorded state funeral by India's Maharashtra, day of mourning declared Indian tycoon and visionary industrialist Ratan Tata, who died late Wednesday (Oct 9), will be accorded a state funeral by the government of Maharashtra, a western Indian state. Calling Tata a "unique blend of morality and entrepreneurship", Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced a day of mourning in the state on Thursday (Oct 10) to pay tribute to the industrialist. Israeli defence minister vows retaliatory strike against Iran will be 'lethal, precise and surprising'. Watch! Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant on Wednesday (Oct 9) warned that a retaliatory attack on Iran would be "lethal, precise and...surprising". During a speech to the country's troops, Galant vowed that Tehran would "pay a price". Hurricane Milton live updates: 1.5mn left without power, record rainfall recorded in Tampa Bay Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 storm on Wednesday morning (Oct 9), after weakening from a Category 5 storm. It has since been downgraded to a Category 2. President Joe Biden has already warned it is expected to be one of the “most and worst destructive hurricanes to hit Florida in over a century”. The cyclone had maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (205 kph) as it made landfall at 8:30 p.m. near Siesta Key, the National Hurricane Center said. Milton is the fifth hurricane to strike the US this year. Poweroutage.us tracker reported that more than 1.5 million customers were left without power, with Tampa and the surrounding areas being the worst affected. Trump rules out another parley with Harris, says 'nothing to debate': 'There will be no rematch!' Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 9) ruled out a second US presidential debate with political rival Kamala Harris. This comes just hours after Fox News offered to host a final debate before the November 5 election. Watch | BRICS Summit 2024: Newly Expanded BRICS Group Will Hold Its Two Day Summit In Kazan

Morning news brief: India mourns Ratan Tata; Israel vows 'lethal' retaliation against Iran, and more

Tensions are escalating in the United Kingdom between banks and tech companies over who should be responsible for compensating victims of online fraud. Watch for more details.

Banks and Tech Clash in UK Over Fraud Costs

To Mark the upcoming release of a new movie Paddington in Peru, statues of the iconic character the popped up all over the UK excited fans sat and took selfies with the statues. Watch to know more.

Trail Of Paddington Statues Pop Up Across UK

The race for the next conservative party leader in the UK is down to two as Tory MPS eliminated James cleverly, in a result which left many conservatives shocked and the labor an liberal Democrats rivals delighted. Watch to know more details.

UK: Cleverly Suffers Shock Exit From Tory Party Leadership Race

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on a whirlwind tour of European allies to secure aid for Kyiv's fight-back against Russia.

Ukrainian President Zelensky Meets UK PM Keir Starmer in London on Tour of European Allies

Cleverly Out After Last Round Of Voting By MPs

After 100 days in power, UK PM Keir Starmer's popularity seems to be fast dipping. Reports suggest, more than six in ten Britons may now dislike the Prime Minister. This comes just three months after Starmer and his Labour Party secured a landslide victory in July.

Keir Starmer's Political Demise? 100 Days Later UK PM's Popularity Dips

Right-wing candidates Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick won through Wednesday to the final round of the contest to become leader of Britain's opposition Conservative Party -- seeking its sixth chief since the Brexit referendum of 2016.

The outspoken Badenoch received 42 votes from fellow Tory MPs while Jenrick picked up 41. Ex-foreign minister James Cleverly was surprisingly eliminated with 37 votes.

Conservative party members will now select the winner in a ballot that closes at the end of October, with the next leader announced on November 2.

The winner will have to reunite a fractious party, hurting from a brutal election defeat in July when it returned just 121 MPs -- the lowest number in its history. It also lost support to the hard-right Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-interior-minister-priti-patel-eliminated-from-uk-conservative-leadership-race-756081">Also read:&nbsp;Ex-interior minister Priti Patel eliminated from UK Conservative leadership race</a>

The Conservatives face a daunting rebuilding campaign to overturn Labour's 174-seat parliamentary majority at the next election, likely in five years.

But with British elections typically won from the centre, any lurch to the right could scupper that chance.

<h2>Badenoch&nbsp;</h2>

The British-Nigerian Badenoch is a right-wing firebrand, unafraid to speak her mind and not shy of picking a battle in the culture wars.

Badenoch, 44, has been an MP since 2017, representing an area in the southeastern English county of Essex.

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Badenoch spent much of her childhood in Lagos before returning to the UK aged 16.

She worked in IT and banking before launching into politics, rising to become a business minister in Rishi Sunak's government.

A self-described "sceptic" of net-zero carbon emissions, Badenoch is popular amongst Tory members who tend to be further right than many lawmakers.

She sparked a storm during the leadership contest when she suggested that statutory maternity pay on small businesses was "excessive".

Badenoch lashed out at the finance ministry, blaming it for a rise in immigration during the Conservatives' time in power from 2010.

She sparked a further furor when she joked that up to 10 per cent of Britain's half a million civil servants were so bad that they "should be in prison".

Badenoch, who says she grew up middle-class but "became working class... working in McDonald's", has promised to make Labour "wriggle" and "sweat" if elected leader.

"I will always fight against left-wing nonsense," she told the Conservatives' recent annual conference.

<h2>Jenrick&nbsp;</h2>

Jenrick, 42, was once considered so mild-mannered and middle-of-the-road that he was referred to in UK political circles as Robert "Generic".

In recent months the decade-long MP has been on a political journey rightwards, prompting some commentators to question his real views.

Jenrick resigned as immigration minister last December saying Sunak's plan to send undocumented migrants to Rwanda did not go far enough.

Watch |&nbsp;Who will replace Rishi Sunak as Tory leader?

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-will-replace-rishi-sunak-as-tory-leader-764044/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He has called for Britain to withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), claiming it made it "impossible to secure" UK borders.

In July last year, media reported that Jenrick had told staff to paint over murals depicting cartoons at an asylum centre because they were too welcoming for children.

Jenrick has put some of his recent weight loss down to the drug Ozempic and told the Tory conference he gave one of his three daughters the middle name Thatcher after the Conservative icon Margaret Thatcher.

"The leadership contest has come down to a three-week fight between two Thatcherite culture warriors, both of whom are in denial about why the party lost the election," Tim Bale, politics professor at Queen Mary University of London, told AFP.&nbsp;

"Badenoch is seen by right-wingers as the real deal, a politician who is genuinely obsessed with combatting what they see as 'wokery' in all its forms, said Bale, who wrote a book on the Tories since Brexit.

"Jenrick attracts more suspicion because he's shape-shifted from a standard issue, centre-right careerist into a hard-liner - so much so that he often appears, as was the case in his speech to the Tory conference in Birmingham, to be trying too hard."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Right-wing candidates Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick won through Wednesday to the final round of the contest to become leader of Britain's opposition Conservative Party -- seeking its sixth chief since the Brexit referendum of 2016.

Right-wing candidates Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick won through Wednesday to the final round of the contest to become leader of Britain's opposition Conservative Party -- seeking its sixth chief since the Brexit referendum of 2016. The outspoken Badenoch received 42 votes from fellow Tory MPs while Jenrick picked up 41. Ex-foreign minister James Cleverly was surprisingly eliminated with 37 votes. Conservative party members will now select the winner in a ballot that closes at the end of October, with the next leader announced on November 2. The winner will have to reunite a fractious party, hurting from a brutal election defeat in July when it returned just 121 MPs -- the lowest number in its history. It also lost support to the hard-right Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. Also read: Ex-interior minister Priti Patel eliminated from UK Conservative leadership race The Conservatives face a daunting rebuilding campaign to overturn Labour's 174-seat parliamentary majority at the next election, likely in five years. But with British elections typically won from the centre, any lurch to the right could scupper that chance. Badenoch The British-Nigerian Badenoch is a right-wing firebrand, unafraid to speak her mind and not shy of picking a battle in the culture wars. Badenoch, 44, has been an MP since 2017, representing an area in the southeastern English county of Essex. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Badenoch spent much of her childhood in Lagos before returning to the UK aged 16. She worked in IT and banking before launching into politics, rising to become a business minister in Rishi Sunak's government. A self-described "sceptic" of net-zero carbon emissions, Badenoch is popular amongst Tory members who tend to be further right than many lawmakers. She sparked a storm during the leadership contest when she suggested that statutory maternity pay on small businesses was "excessive". Badenoch lashed out at the finance ministry, blaming it for a rise in immigration during the Conservatives' time in power from 2010. She sparked a further furor when she joked that up to 10 per cent of Britain's half a million civil servants were so bad that they "should be in prison". Badenoch, who says she grew up middle-class but "became working class... working in McDonald's", has promised to make Labour "wriggle" and "sweat" if elected leader. "I will always fight against left-wing nonsense," she told the Conservatives' recent annual conference. Jenrick Jenrick, 42, was once considered so mild-mannered and middle-of-the-road that he was referred to in UK political circles as Robert "Generic". In recent months the decade-long MP has been on a political journey rightwards, prompting some commentators to question his real views. Jenrick resigned as immigration minister last December saying Sunak's plan to send undocumented migrants to Rwanda did not go far enough. Watch | Who will replace Rishi Sunak as Tory leader? × He has called for Britain to withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), claiming it made it "impossible to secure" UK borders. In July last year, media reported that Jenrick had told staff to paint over murals depicting cartoons at an asylum centre because they were too welcoming for children. Jenrick has put some of his recent weight loss down to the drug Ozempic and told the Tory conference he gave one of his three daughters the middle name Thatcher after the Conservative icon Margaret Thatcher. "The leadership contest has come down to a three-week fight between two Thatcherite culture warriors, both of whom are in denial about why the party lost the election," Tim Bale, politics professor at Queen Mary University of London, told AFP. "Badenoch is seen by right-wingers as the real deal, a politician who is genuinely obsessed with combatting what they see as 'wokery' in all its forms, said Bale, who wrote a book on the Tories since Brexit. "Jenrick attracts more suspicion because he's shape-shifted from a standard issue, centre-right careerist into a hard-liner - so much so that he often appears, as was the case in his speech to the Tory conference in Birmingham, to be trying too hard." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

James Cleverly eliminated, Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick to be part of UK's Tory leadership race

The US and its Gulf allies have reportedly initiated covert talks with Iran to establish a ceasefire in West Asia.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu claimed that Hezbollah's leader-in-waiting, Hashem Safieddine, has been killed by Israeli forces, even&nbsp;though the IDF has not confirmed this.

In the UK, MI5 chief Ken McCallum accused Russia of conducting "mayhem" across Europe, involving sabotage and arson.

In Brazil, Elon Musk’s social platform X is set to return after complying with Supreme Court orders regarding hate speech, following months-long stand-off.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines for more

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:226,&quot;w&quot;:589,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2067}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-us-arab-allies-in-covert-talks-with-iran-for-ceasefire-on-all-fronts-765765">West Asia crisis: US, Arab allies in covert talks with Iran for ceasefire on 'all fronts'</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:258,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2099}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/09/459135-screenshot-2024-10-09-074211.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The US and its allies in the Gulf have launched covert talks with Iran to defuse tensions in West Asia, amid a looming threat of retaliatory Israeli strikes on the Shi'ite nation. Israel's Channel 12 news reported that the US and Arab states are in talks with Tehran to reach a comprehensive ceasefire on all fronts, including Gaza and Lebanon.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:696,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2537}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-killed-hashem-safieddine-idf-says-not-sure-even-as-netanyahu-claims-he-was-taken-out-765768">Did Israel kill Hashem Safieddine? IDF unsure even as Netanyahu claims he was 'taken out'</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:728,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2569}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/09/459136-new-wion-2024-10-09t081831123.png?imwidth=400" />

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Oct 8) claimed that Israeli airstrikes had killed two successors of Hezbollah's slain leader Hassan Nasrallah. This is in contrast to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), which said it cannot confirm if Hashem Safieddine, the man expected to succeed Nasrallah, was killed when Israel struck the intelligence compound in Beirut in al- Dahieh neighbourhood.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1183,&quot;w&quot;:541,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3024}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mi5-chief-accuses-russia-of-carrying-out-mayhem-on-uk-european-streets-765797">MI5 chief accuses Russia of carrying out ‘mayhem’ on UK, European streets</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1215,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3056}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/17/311413-wion-images-50.png?imwidth=400" />

UK spy agency has warned that Russia is looking to cause "sustained mayhem on British and European streets". The head of MI5 said Russian intelligence agency GRU had carried out "arson, sabotage and more dangerous actions conducted with increasing recklessness" in UK following the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent support offered by London. MI5 chief Ken McCallum was giving an annual update on security threats faced by UK.

&nbsp;

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1701,&quot;w&quot;:719,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3542}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-bows-to-brazils-supreme-court-x-set-to-return-after-months-long-showdown-over-hate-speech-765798">Musk bows to Brazil’s Supreme Court! X set to return after months-long showdown over hate speech</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1733,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3574}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/09/459158-new-wion-2024-10-09t093516357.png?imwidth=400" />

Elon Musk's X has been cleared by the Brazil Supreme Court to resume operations in the country. This clearance comes after the social media platform reversed course and began complying with court orders that billionaire owner Musk had previously vowed to oppose.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Villages Of Zolota Nyva and Zoryane Pershe 'Under Russian Control'

<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:2203,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:353,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:4044}" class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" bis_chainid="1" bis_depth="1" bis_id="fr_bdm55j8eaukisa7ovgzcrd" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:2203,&quot;w&quot;:560,&quot;h&quot;:350,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:4044}" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-villages-of-zolota-nyva-and-zoryane-pershe-under-russian-control-765799/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US and its Gulf allies have reportedly initiated covert talks with Iran to establish a ceasefire in West Asia. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu claimed that Hezbollah's leader-in-waiting, Hashem Safieddine, has been killed by Israeli forces, even though the IDF has not confirmed this.

The US and its Gulf allies have reportedly initiated covert talks with Iran to establish a ceasefire in West Asia. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu claimed that Hezbollah's leader-in-waiting, Hashem Safieddine, has been killed by Israeli forces, even though the IDF has not confirmed this. In the UK, MI5 chief Ken McCallum accused Russia of conducting "mayhem" across Europe, involving sabotage and arson. In Brazil, Elon Musk’s social platform X is set to return after complying with Supreme Court orders regarding hate speech, following months-long stand-off. Click on the headlines for more West Asia crisis: US, Arab allies in covert talks with Iran for ceasefire on 'all fronts' The US and its allies in the Gulf have launched covert talks with Iran to defuse tensions in West Asia, amid a looming threat of retaliatory Israeli strikes on the Shi'ite nation. Israel's Channel 12 news reported that the US and Arab states are in talks with Tehran to reach a comprehensive ceasefire on all fronts, including Gaza and Lebanon. Did Israel kill Hashem Safieddine? IDF unsure even as Netanyahu claims he was 'taken out' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Oct 8) claimed that Israeli airstrikes had killed two successors of Hezbollah's slain leader Hassan Nasrallah. This is in contrast to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), which said it cannot confirm if Hashem Safieddine, the man expected to succeed Nasrallah, was killed when Israel struck the intelligence compound in Beirut in al- Dahieh neighbourhood. MI5 chief accuses Russia of carrying out ‘mayhem’ on UK, European streets UK spy agency has warned that Russia is looking to cause "sustained mayhem on British and European streets". The head of MI5 said Russian intelligence agency GRU had carried out "arson, sabotage and more dangerous actions conducted with increasing recklessness" in UK following the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent support offered by London. MI5 chief Ken McCallum was giving an annual update on security threats faced by UK. Musk bows to Brazil’s Supreme Court! X set to return after months-long showdown over hate speech Elon Musk's X has been cleared by the Brazil Supreme Court to resume operations in the country. This clearance comes after the social media platform reversed course and began complying with court orders that billionaire owner Musk had previously vowed to oppose. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Villages Of Zolota Nyva and Zoryane Pershe 'Under Russian Control'

Morning news brief: West Asia crisis updates; Musk's X back in Brazil, and more

More than a dozen US States at the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits against the popular social networking site Tik Tok alleging that the popular short form video app is designed to be addictive to kids and harmful to their mental health. Watch in for more details!

Is TikTok Endangering Young Minds?

In less than 100 days since the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer took charge at number 10 Downing Street, his favorability numbers have plummeted to a new low. According to a poll that was conducted by YouGov currently only about 27% of the Britain have a positive opinion of the Prime Minister, that's his lowest rating with the pollsters since September 2021.

UK: Poll Shows Keir Starmer Now More Unpopular Than Nigel Farage

In a rare public address on Tuesday, MI5 director Ken McCallum outlined the growing threats to the UK from hostile states and terror groups. McCallum revealed that the number of state-threat investigations conducted by MI5 has increased by 48% over the past year, with Iran, Russia, and China identified as the primary perpetrators. His speech highlighted the intensifying security challenges the UK faces from espionage, cyberattacks, and foreign interference, underscoring the importance of national vigilance in countering these evolving threats.

"ISIS and Al-Qaeda On The Rise Again," MI5 Chief Slams Russia and Iran For Plots In UK

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, alongside chancellor Rachel Reeves and energy and net zero minister toured a sustainable bottling plant..The tour came after the announcement of landmark carbon capture funding...

UK PM Keir Starmer Says Carbon Capture Is A Race We Can Win

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has appointed Morgan McSweeney as his new Chief of Staff following the resignation of Sue Gray. McSweeney, a long-time political strategist, has been a key adviser to Starmer, playing a crucial role in shaping Labour's campaign strategy. His appointment comes as Starmer seeks to strengthen his leadership team ahead of the next general election, focusing on building a clear policy agenda and enhancing Labour's electoral prospects.

UK: Morgan McSweeney Appointed As New Chief Of Staff After Sue Gray Resigns

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has appointed Morgan McSweeney as his new Chief of Staff following the resignation of Sue Gray. Gray announced she would be taking up a new role as Starmer’s envoy for the regions and nations.

UK: Morgan McSweeney Appointed As Starmer's Chief Of Staff After Sue Gray's Resignation

JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential nominee, backed Donald Trump’s state-based approach to abortion, just days after Melania Trump's pro-choice statements.

In Israel, the military has been placed on alert ahead of the anniversary of the Gaza conflict. Meanwhile,&nbsp;reports suggest that Israeli airstrikes hit southern Beirut with intense force.

Donald Trump returned to Pennsylvania, where he&nbsp;claimed the assassination attempt in July was orchestrated by political opponents.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines for more

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:194,&quot;w&quot;:750,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2035}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-backs-trumps-state-based-abortion-approach-after-melania-trumps-pro-choice-statement-764867">JD Vance backs Trump's state-based abortion approach days after Melania Trump's pro-choice statement</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:226,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2067}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/06/458620-new-wion-2024-10-06t082718003.png?imwidth=400" />

Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance on Saturday (Oct 5) addressed the Trump campaign's stance on abortion.&nbsp;Just days after former first lady Melania Trump voiced her support for a woman's right to abortion, Vance defended the campaign's conservative position on the issue.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:696,&quot;w&quot;:556,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2537}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-places-its-forces-on-alert-ahead-of-first-anniversary-of-conflict-764854">Gaza war: Israel places its forces on alert ahead of first anniversary of conflict</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:728,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2569}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/06/458608-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" />

Israel on Saturday (Oct 5) placed its forces on alert ahead of the first anniversary of Hamas' October 7 attack,&nbsp;after a military official said the country was preparing its retaliation for Iran's missile attack.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1148,&quot;w&quot;:718,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2989}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-returns-to-pennsylvania-after-assassination-bid-blames-opposition-for-trying-to-kill-him-764852">'Wasn't supposed to make it': Trump returns to Pennsylvania, blames opposition for trying to kill him</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1180,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3021}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/06/458607-new-wion-2024-10-06t075707739.png?imwidth=400" />

Donald Trump on Saturday (Oct 5) made a defiant return to Butler, Pennsylvania, where an assassination attempt nearly claimed his life in July. Speaking to a massive crowd from behind bulletproof glass, Trump questioned whether his political opponents were behind the attack, declaring that he would "never quit."

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1618,&quot;w&quot;:628,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3459}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israeli-strikes-some-of-them-very-violent-hit-south-beirut-says-reports-764864">West Asia crisis: Israeli strikes, some of them 'very violent', hit south Beirut, say reports</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1650,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3491}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/06/458618-untitled.png?imwidth=400" />

Israeli strikes hit south Beirut Saturday night into Sunday, some of them "very violent," the news agency AFP reported citing state media. The report said that Israeli military aircraft&nbsp;carried out four very violent strikes on (Beirut's) southern suburbs, and one strike on the Chweifat&nbsp;area, with ambulances rushing to the site.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Says Captured Another Village in Eastern Ukraine

<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:2120,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:353,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3961}" class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" bis_chainid="1" bis_depth="1" bis_id="fr_c06r0yvevo9no07o6orc3m" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:2120,&quot;w&quot;:560,&quot;h&quot;:350,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3961}" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-says-captured-another-village-in-eastern-ukraine-764865/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential nominee, backed Donald Trump’s state-based approach to abortion, just days after Melania Trump's pro-choice statements.

JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential nominee, backed Donald Trump’s state-based approach to abortion, just days after Melania Trump's pro-choice statements. In Israel, the military has been placed on alert ahead of the anniversary of the Gaza conflict. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Israeli airstrikes hit southern Beirut with intense force. Donald Trump returned to Pennsylvania, where he claimed the assassination attempt in July was orchestrated by political opponents. Click on the headlines for more JD Vance backs Trump's state-based abortion approach days after Melania Trump's pro-choice statement Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance on Saturday (Oct 5) addressed the Trump campaign's stance on abortion. Just days after former first lady Melania Trump voiced her support for a woman's right to abortion, Vance defended the campaign's conservative position on the issue. Gaza war: Israel places its forces on alert ahead of first anniversary of conflict Israel on Saturday (Oct 5) placed its forces on alert ahead of the first anniversary of Hamas' October 7 attack, after a military official said the country was preparing its retaliation for Iran's missile attack. 'Wasn't supposed to make it': Trump returns to Pennsylvania, blames opposition for trying to kill him Donald Trump on Saturday (Oct 5) made a defiant return to Butler, Pennsylvania, where an assassination attempt nearly claimed his life in July. Speaking to a massive crowd from behind bulletproof glass, Trump questioned whether his political opponents were behind the attack, declaring that he would "never quit." West Asia crisis: Israeli strikes, some of them 'very violent', hit south Beirut, say reports Israeli strikes hit south Beirut Saturday night into Sunday, some of them "very violent," the news agency AFP reported citing state media. The report said that Israeli military aircraft carried out four very violent strikes on (Beirut's) southern suburbs, and one strike on the Chweifat area, with ambulances rushing to the site. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Says Captured Another Village in Eastern Ukraine

Morning news brief: Trump back in Pennsylvania after failed assassination; Israel on alert, and more

American and British military forces launched coordinated strikes on more than a dozen Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen on Friday. The attacks targeted key weapons systems, military bases, and other infrastructure utilised by the Iranian-backed Houthi militants.

US and UK Forces Strike Key Houthi Sites in Yemen

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby pulled out of an interview with former United Kingdom&nbsp;Prime Minister Boris Johnson after she was told she could not record the audio or make a transcript of the conversation.&nbsp;

The former prime minister had promised to “reveal what really happened during my time as [London] mayor, foreign secretary and PM” during the conversation next week.&nbsp;

Beth Rigby shared a post on X, saying "I was looking forward to interviewing Boris Johnson at Cheltenham but regrettably, I can’t go ahead with the event because I am not allowed [to] make an audio recording or transcript of the interview."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bbc-cancels-former-british-pm-boris-johnsons-interview-over-pre-sent-notes-764173">Also read:&nbsp;BBC cancels former British PM Boris Johnson's interview over pre-sent notes</a>

“As a journalist in conversation with a former PM at a public event, I can only proceed if we do it on the record. I’m sorry to have to pull out," she added.&nbsp;

This comes days after the BBC cancelled Johnson's interview after the presenter Laura Kuenssberg mistakenly sent him her briefing notes.

Kuenssberg said she had sent Johnson the briefing notes “in a message meant for my team”, adding that the error was "embarrassing and disappointing" and meant it was "not right for the interview to go ahead".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Former UK PM Boris Johnson Claims Netanyahu Bugged His Bathroom

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/former-uk-pm-boris-johnson-claims-netanyahu-bugged-his-bathroom-764610/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“It’s very frustrating, and there’s no point pretending it’s anything other than embarrassing and disappointing, as there are plenty of important questions to be asked. But red faces aside, honesty is the best policy. See you on Sunday," Kuenssberg added.&nbsp;

The former UK PM was expected to discuss Brexit, his government’s handling of the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic, and the Partygate scandal.&nbsp;

Boris Johnson served as the UK prime minister from 2019 to 2022 and has a memoir, Unleashed, being published next week.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby pulled out of an interview with former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson after she was told she could not record the audio or make a transcript of the conversation.

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby pulled out of an interview with former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson after she was told she could not record the audio or make a transcript of the conversation. The former prime minister had promised to “reveal what really happened during my time as [London] mayor, foreign secretary and PM” during the conversation next week. Beth Rigby shared a post on X, saying "I was looking forward to interviewing Boris Johnson at Cheltenham but regrettably, I can’t go ahead with the event because I am not allowed [to] make an audio recording or transcript of the interview." Also read: BBC cancels former British PM Boris Johnson's interview over pre-sent notes “As a journalist in conversation with a former PM at a public event, I can only proceed if we do it on the record. I’m sorry to have to pull out," she added. This comes days after the BBC cancelled Johnson's interview after the presenter Laura Kuenssberg mistakenly sent him her briefing notes. Kuenssberg said she had sent Johnson the briefing notes “in a message meant for my team”, adding that the error was "embarrassing and disappointing" and meant it was "not right for the interview to go ahead". Watch | Former UK PM Boris Johnson Claims Netanyahu Bugged His Bathroom × “It’s very frustrating, and there’s no point pretending it’s anything other than embarrassing and disappointing, as there are plenty of important questions to be asked. But red faces aside, honesty is the best policy. See you on Sunday," Kuenssberg added. The former UK PM was expected to discuss Brexit, his government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Partygate scandal. Boris Johnson served as the UK prime minister from 2019 to 2022 and has a memoir, Unleashed, being published next week. (With inputs from agencies)

British broadcaster backs out of interview with former PM Boris Johnson over recording ban

UK government has agreed to hand sovereignty of the long-contested Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining sovereignty of Diego Garcia airbase for an initial period of 99 years.

UK Handovers The Control of Chagos Islands to Mauritius

West Asia On Brink Of All-Out War? US, UK, India, China Watch Developments, Eye Individual Concerns. West Asia on edge effectively means that Nations virtually across the world are biting their nails on the road ahead. From the biggest economic powerhouses on the planet, the stakes are pretty massive extending to economic Investments oil supplies and more. This report tells you more! Watch in for more details!

West Asia On Brink Of All-Out War? US, UK, India, China Watch Developments, Eye Individual Concerns

UK Returns Chagos Island to Mauritius, Retains Diego Garcia Airbase

UK government has agreed to hand sovereignty of the long-contested Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining sovereignty of Diego Garcia airbase for an initial period of 99 years. Watch in for more details!

UK Retains Control Of Deigo Garvia Airbase, Deal Allows Settlement Of Chagos Islanders

UK Handovers The Control Of Chagos Islands To Mauritius

In Historic Move, UK Gives Sovereignty Of Chagos Islands To Mauritius, Retains Diego Garcia Airbase

Defence experts have voiced concerns about Britain's Armed Force's inability to defend Israel from Iranian ballistic missile attacks. They have highlighted that RAF Typhoon jets lack the necessary weapons to intercept missiles and attacks like the one launched by Tehran on Tuesday (Oct 1). Despite recent upgrades, the UK has been relegated to a supporting role in response to Iranian aggression; they say.

UK Armed Forces 'Not Up To Defending Israel'

Britain announced on Thursday that it will cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius in a deal that ensures the continued operation of the UK-U.S. military base on Diego Garcia. The agreement may also open the door for the return of residents who were displaced decades ago.

UK Agrees To Return Chagos Islands To Mauritius, Ending Decades-Long Dispute

Why can the UK Prime Minister not buy his own clothes, what is happening in the UK is ridiculous and the Prime Minister of the UK has become an object of ridicule there is no other way to describe what's going on... UK PM has paid for gifts worth more than £6,000 in a bid to salvage his reputation amid a growing scandal over freebies. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Keir Starmer Repays More Than £6,000 In Gifts After Donations Row

In Singapore, former transport minister S Iswaran&nbsp;has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for a graft case.

Meanwhile, drone footage appears to show Russian soldiers executing 16 Ukrainian prisoners of war, in what Ukraine claims is part of Vladimir Putin's violent policies.

In the US, prosecutors have unveiled new evidence alleging that Donald Trump orchestrated a criminal scheme to overturn the 2020 elections. Additionally, Kamala Harris's husband, Doug Emhoff, is facing accusations of assaulting his ex-girlfriend in 2012.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines for more

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:47,&quot;w&quot;:637,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1888}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-singapore-ex-minister-s-iswaran-sentenced-to-12-months-in-jail-in-graft-case-764028">Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:79,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1920}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/18/406461-wion-images-2024-01-18t114735533.png?imwidth=400" />

S Iswaran, an Indian-origin former transport minister and previously part of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore has been sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case and for obstructing justice by the High Court.&nbsp;

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:499,&quot;w&quot;:658,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2340}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-footage-allegedly-shows-russian-soldiers-lining-up-and-executing-16-ukraine-soldiers-764024">Drone footage allegedly shows Russian soldiers lining up and executing 16 Ukraine soldiers</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:531,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2372}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/03/458088-untitled-design-36.png?imwidth=400" />

A shocking video shot by a drone appears to show the moment Russian soldiers shot down 16 Ukrainian prisoners of war. Ukraine has alleged that Russia is acting on Vladimir Putin's murderous policy that authorises the killing of POWs.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:952,&quot;w&quot;:637,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2793}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-led-desperate-criminal-scheme-to-stay-in-power-prosecutors-reveal-new-evidence-revealed-764015">Trump led ‘desperate criminal scheme’ to stay in power, prosecutors reveal new evidence</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:984,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2825}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/03/458078-new-wion-2024-10-03t081722399.png?imwidth=400" />

Donald Trump launched a "private criminal effort" to subvert the 2020 US elections, which he lost to US President Joe Biden, alleged prosecutors in a court filing unsealed on Wednesday (Oct 2). This may be the last ditch effort to detail their case against the Republican presidential candidate before he faces off against Democratic nominee, US Vice-President Kamala Harris in the Nov 5 Elections.

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1439,&quot;w&quot;:662,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3280}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-admitting-to-cheating-harris-husband-doug-emhoff-accused-of-assaulting-ex-girlfriend-764007">After admitting to cheating, Harris’ husband Doug Emhoff accused of assaulting ex-girlfriend</a>

<img alt="main img" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1471,&quot;w&quot;:640,&quot;h&quot;:352,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3312}" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/11/21/222831-untitled-design-13.jpg?imwidth=400" />

US Vice President Kamala Harris's husband Doug Emhoff has been accused of assaulting his ex-girlfriend for flirting with a valet worker, way back in 2012, according to a bombshell report.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Two killed, thousands evacuated as typhoon Krathon approaches Taiwan

<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1924,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:353,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3765}" class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" bis_chainid="1" bis_depth="1" bis_id="fr_vvqq15p444l5og5wzidemp" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:1924,&quot;w&quot;:560,&quot;h&quot;:350,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3765}" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-killed-thousands-evacuated-as-typhoon-krathon-approaches-taiwan-764033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Singapore, former transport minister S Iswaran has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for a graft case. Meanwhile, drone footage appears to show Russian soldiers executing 16 Ukrainian prisoners of war, in what Ukraine claims is part of Vladimir Putin's violent policies.

In Singapore, former transport minister S Iswaran has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for a graft case. Meanwhile, drone footage appears to show Russian soldiers executing 16 Ukrainian prisoners of war, in what Ukraine claims is part of Vladimir Putin's violent policies. In the US, prosecutors have unveiled new evidence alleging that Donald Trump orchestrated a criminal scheme to overturn the 2020 elections. Additionally, Kamala Harris's husband, Doug Emhoff, is facing accusations of assaulting his ex-girlfriend in 2012. Click on the headlines for more Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case S Iswaran, an Indian-origin former transport minister and previously part of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore has been sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case and for obstructing justice by the High Court. Drone footage allegedly shows Russian soldiers lining up and executing 16 Ukraine soldiers A shocking video shot by a drone appears to show the moment Russian soldiers shot down 16 Ukrainian prisoners of war. Ukraine has alleged that Russia is acting on Vladimir Putin's murderous policy that authorises the killing of POWs. Trump led ‘desperate criminal scheme’ to stay in power, prosecutors reveal new evidence Donald Trump launched a "private criminal effort" to subvert the 2020 US elections, which he lost to US President Joe Biden, alleged prosecutors in a court filing unsealed on Wednesday (Oct 2). This may be the last ditch effort to detail their case against the Republican presidential candidate before he faces off against Democratic nominee, US Vice-President Kamala Harris in the Nov 5 Elections. After admitting to cheating, Harris’ husband Doug Emhoff accused of assaulting ex-girlfriend US Vice President Kamala Harris's husband Doug Emhoff has been accused of assaulting his ex-girlfriend for flirting with a valet worker, way back in 2012, according to a bombshell report. Watch | Two killed, thousands evacuated as typhoon Krathon approaches Taiwan

Morning news brief: Trump's 'desperate criminal scheme' for power; Singapore ex-minister jailed, and more

Uk, News on Uk, stories on Uk, articles on Uk, Uk stories at Wion, Uk news, Uk latest news